The Lion's have it - Liberty and Eagleville

Day 1

The June 21st weekend brought the Liberty Lion's and Eagleville Lion's charity shows. I flew down on Friday...work computer in tow to continue to work during my traveling that afternoon. I was lucky to get the exit row alone and got a lot of work done as planned.  And, I connected on a few tele-conference calls during my layover. I just may have gotten more work done than if I had been in the office...no interruptions emails or phone calls on an airplane.

B just hanging out at
Main Gate Farms

Due to my late arrival in Tennessee, I did not get a practice ride.  Instead I met up with Bourbon on the show grounds that night. We were at the Shelbyville Ag center for the Liberty Lion's show.  Last year it had poured cats and dogs in my class.  But this evening it was blue skies. However not very many trailers were in the parking lot when I arrived. Hmmmm, not gonna be a very big show - not like last year.  That's disappointing.   Wonder why? As we got closer to the opening anthem, the count situation did not improve. It was going to be a quiet show. Maybe 10 trailers in the lot. A few horses in each class, if the class wasn't cancelled altogether.

Hannah warmed up B, and then I rode too. It wasn't pretty. We were in the parking lot on the stone and riding a sloped lot. Cars were entering, people walking around, and I was not getting a very good feel for him.  After B went through DQP I rode again in the warmup area. It was better, but I felt a little off. Without a practice ride and coming off the plane right to the show didn't sit well with me.  On the other hand watching Hannah warm him up, he looked awesome. Even better than just two weeks ago. Amazing!  No longer do I have to worry about head shake (or lack of) B has big time game in that category. And he's getting stronger and lifting more in front. Still work there, but improvement for sure.

By the time my class was called only three horses were lining up to go into the big oval.  Me on my junior horse, along with two aged horses....ummm and they were big time winners, one was even a World Grand Champion!  Yikes!  I guess I was destined for a third place before the class had even begun. LOL.  And that's exactly what I received. My ride was okay, but not great. At least that's how I felt.  Hannah said we looked great. And it was good to see me slower and not flying around the ring.  (What me, flying?)  So, some bonus and progress. But a little deflation of spirit.   Lesson learned, put B in his junior class where he has a fighting chance at a top ribbon.  On the other hand coming in 3rd behind Wayne Westbrook on Firecracker, and Pushers Secret Rose, a WGC, is not shabby. :). Hello!

After the class I joined Carlan, who had come to watch me show.  And we headed over to the Calsonic to watch the 4H show with her girls.  There were more horses here than at Liberty.  It was fun to watch the kids ride patterns, and I cheered on #420, a little girl in pink whose horse was just ear floppin' along.  She didn't place, but I went up to her afterwards and told her I loved her horse, it was the best one out there. Her name was Fairy. And she certainly was a precious, ear floppin' little fairy for sure!  

I called it quits by 10:30pm and headed to Jane's to hit the hay. (Figuratively, not literally).


Day 2

On Saturday I woke and headed over to Hannah Pulvers Stables for my practice ride. They were working horses as usual when I arrived. B was brought out and I watched as Hannah warmed him up. She gave me some instruction on holding my hands much further down, and in the subtleties of providing light corrections. B is progressing, and his cues are more subtle and so I need to learn that too. And he's learning to carry himself more too. So I need to be way better in the cue and release action. This is great news...but definitely a change for me.  I now need to catch up to Bourbon on my learning and lessons. He gets weeks, I get minutes. Soak it in quickly!

As I took to the rail for my practice ride, it felt funny to have my hands so low and in front of the horn. I felt like I was tipping forward. As I picked him up into the flat walk, he rose in front and my seat still felt funny but a little more upright. I focused on keeping my hands where I was told, pressure in my thighs and to release. For heaven sakes, release!  It felt different, but as I rode I began to understand how that helped him with freedom of his head.  And his shake. I corrected in the curve and released. Well, most of the time. For the other instances, I did it quickly after I was told to do it.  :)  But I was starting to get it. B is so progressed. It definitely is me who needs to catch up.  So glad I got my 1on1 time with Hannah and B.  I am thankful for the lessons! (Now if they can only stick!)  I hung around to watch another young girl get her lesson on a beautiful black colt named Leonardo deCaprio...and learned more just listening and watching her lesson.

Afterwards, I headed out to meet up with Anne Frank. Two of her mares had babies this week...and they we're both Jose babies.  Since I'm partial to those Jose's (that's Divas daddy too) I couldn't wait to see them.  A little tan colt and a big black filly. Sweet!   Only a few days old. We went into the stalls, pet the mamas and tried to touch those soft newborns. They were shy and nervous, but I touched each one and coo'd a bit to them.  What a cool experience. Thanks Anne for being so gracious for the opportunity. Wonder if one day one will be mine (can you say pretty black Jose filly!?), and I'll look back on this moment with a smile.

Go Packers! This just may be my new favorite pic of B.
Love the way the sunset makes him copper! @ Eagleville.
(purchased from Sid Abernathy)

I caught a mid afternoon nap at Jane's and then was off to show number two of the weekend.   Eagleville was less than 20 minutes from Jane's. They say its the oldest walking horse show in Tenneessee.   My heart leaped for joy as I turned into the grassy park-it was FILLED with trailers, cars, horses and people. Yeah, tonight were gonna have a horse show folks!  I found the Hannah Pulvers' trailer and parked my car under the shade of the big oak trees.  The sun was beating down, and it was hot.  B was tied in the hot sun sweating. I asked for him to be moved to the shady side of the trailer and felt much better for him.  I swear he gave me a look of gratitude.

The ring at Eagleville.  Warming up
before the show started.

I then took a walk up to check out the ring. I loved it...it was small, makeshift and country!  Yes, this was what a true Tennessee one-night show is supposed to be like.  My heart was happy.  I watched folks warming up in the ring and then headed back to the trailer to get dressed.  Tonight I would be in Packer colors...gold and green. A new outfit I picked up this summer shopping with Kricket, with serious bling. I felt that was the right outfit for this show.  Everything felt better tonight. Even the heat was almost bearable.  I tried to stay in the shade and stood still to stay (kinda) cool in my leather chaps and cowboy hat.

My class was number 7. Lucky number 7.   Bourbon looked good under Hannah as he was being warmed up  And I felt good riding him in the warm up area too. Well, except for that little bucking off incident due to a performance horse spooking. THAT little trick is gonna have to stop! Second show in a row now.  Bad B.

Soon we were heading into the show ring...Packer colors and all!  The sun was setting but still out. I could see the crystals from my shirt reflecting in the under-rim of my cowboy hat, like a mirrored ball.  I laughed....is it too much bling?  Nawwwwww!   I picked up on the reins and we went in shaking hard.

The spectators were right along the edge of the ring. Some stood inches away rail-side, some had lawn chairs, there was a bleacher section on the south and a gazebo in the center. People were walking, babies were tossing toys, smoke from the BBQ stand was lofting, so many moving things....but B flicked his ears, and kept on walking and shaking. My hands were where they were supposed to be, and I tried to remember to release. As I rounded the bend the HP team was there cheering me on, and reminding me to breath, release, use your left leg, keep him on the rail....good job.  And as I headed into the other bend Hannah was instructing, keep that speed, looks really good, get off the rail. Huh? Should I stay on the rail or get off the rail or breath!?   Ha ha ha.  I guess all of those things.  We took the flat walk, running walk, reverse, flat walk and running walk. As I came through the bend again they called for the line up and I heard Hannah say "take the whole way"....so I stayed on course, I released and let him ear flop right down the straight away, right in front of the judge one last time, as if to say...lookie here judge.  And, then into the lineup we went.


Watch the ribbon presentation on ReporTV at: Bourbon's Reserve Ribbon pick-up

After a few minutes the judge's card was in. The blue went to - Line Item Veto. A greatly beribboned horse with a WGC title.  And, for reserve .....number 1146....everyone looked around as the announcer continued....."Watchin for the Storm".  Me and B!  I pulled out, looked around, omg where do I go?  The ribbon girl waved, and I turned back around behind all the horses still in the lineup and shook our way over to our reserve ribbon pickup. I grinned at Hannah as I exited...how about that!?  Yippee....much better feeling than last night. Woot woot. I received many compliments on our ride.  To my delight, Bobby Richards (who found, broke and started B for me) was impressed and came over to say I had a "great showing" and that B looked great.  And, my friend (and Brenda's) Jack Heffington, who owns The Scoop walking horse magazine, kindly offered that he thought I won that one. And that he noticed a great improvement in me and B this year. :). Thanks "Heff".

B gets a Reserve!  Woot woot.
You can see my bling shirt in the back. 

The rest of the night was spent socializing, hanging with the HP customers and team, watching horses getting warmed up and enjoying a few cocktails.  I watched some more classes....many pleasure classes were on the show bill, so that was nice.  Dr Jana Anderson won her class on Endeavor, and the HP contingent collected many more great ribbons.  I also spent some alone time lovin' on Bourbon. And unfortunately, it all ended too soon.  Tonight was really fun, not just because of my ribbon, but because the show was so active, I knew so many people, and got to share some laughs with the HP gang. Fun fun fun.   Goodbyes were said as I pulled out of the show parking lot and onto the highway.  I wish all the shows were this much fun.

Our next showing will be for the big July 4th weekend.....and Scott is coming too!  Yeah, can't wait!  Until then....keep on walkin'. 

Rain, Rain, Go Away

Jane snapped this shot of me having
coffee and blogging on the porch
swing one morning.

Saturday morning I rose early to overcast and cloudy skies. I am beginning to think my luck may be running out, and that rain is definitely in the forecast for today. But as the morning progressed the sun came out, blue skies appeared and it teased us a little bit. I got up, had my coffee and texted Hannah to confirm a morning practice ride. Then I jumped in the car and drove the 45 minutes to Shelbyville to see B.  My drive was met with rain drops and sunshine. Boy, who knows what today will bring. The weather is literally changing by the minute. 

When I arrived at Main Gate Farms there were already multiple cars parked by the arena. I pulled off into the grass and and killed the engine. I pulled my hair back into a pony tail, put on my baseball cap, and pulled on my riding boots. I then headed into the barn through the doorway near Bourbon's stall. As I rounded the corner, I noticed his stall was empty, so I progressed into the cross tie area. "There you are!  Good morning B," I said, and B perked up and turned his ears towards me, and gave me a little hoof pawing hello. Candy was there with him, tacking him up. I gave him a pat and looked into his eyes. I swear he looked just a little lazy eyed, and I wondered if he had got a good night's rest after last night's big class. 

Who would have thought this day
would end up in T-storms!?

In no time we walked out of the tack area, down the long row of white painted stalls (I think there are 36 stalls in this aisle way,  18 on each side), and into the large cedar lined riding arena. The arena is set up with an observation deck at the center for customers to sit and socialize, and a round pen on one end. There were numerous customers sitting at center ring watching Hannah ride Absolute Sky. He's her lite shod horse, and is pretty awesome to watch up close like this. He steps really high and you can hear him snort his way around the ring. It feels electric charged. One of Hannah's customers took him for a spin that morning, much to her delight. I passed on the chance, but took a rain check. I wanted to focus on B and he was already getting warmed up as I watched.

I jumped up on Bourbon next and off we went.  We dog walked at first, and then after one lap, I picked him up into a slow flat walk. He felt really good, was soft in my hands, and snapped and shook. I just enjoyed the ride. I focused on keeping him at a slow walk all the way around the ring. I checked his nose and gave a release. I  could feel him rise in the chest and get a little snappier at the knees. He does this really cool thing once in a while where he just hoofs it. I can't describe it well, but he snaps those knees and really grooves. It's pretty amazing and powerful. All in a very good way. I love it.  We're having a great ride. Hannah gives advice and instructions along the way. We're doing good today. I feel good about my ride and I feel like we're progressing on this whole learning journey. Maybe this weekend is a big breakthrough for me, for B, for both of us together.  I walk him for a while to allow him to catch his breath. Then I pick him up and work him again. It's so smooth. It's so fun. And it's all so over before I want it to be. But it's almost noon, and the horses going to the show tonight all need their show baths. And so they take B from me, and back down to the wash rack. As I watch Bub lead him away, his little tail swinging left and right to his stride, it's like my whole heart goes with him.  Bye B. . . .

Jane and I at the Bluebird Cafe.

I quickly divert my attention to the other customers who are there, before I get too sad.  I watch a few clients ride their horses and then we make plans for a Mexican lunch down the street. I give Hannah a hug, as she won't be at the show with us tonight, and say our good byes. Then off to lunch, which is always a great opportunity to learn more about the others who are on a journey much like my own. We swap first walking horse experiences and tips of the hobby. And we all share our deep appreciation for what Hannah is doing with our horses and for improving us as riders. I hope she realizes how much she is appreciated and respected by us all. It reconfirms for me that B is in a good place and being well taken care of - just as I would take care of him at home. 

After lunch I head back to Jane's to take a nap. I'm exhausted and I thought I'd feel better tonight if I could just rest for a few hours  When I arrive I find Jane and Jean are out in the front lawn grooming Jean's horse, Clever. So I stop and chat for a while. Its really nice to catch up with Jean.  Then I head to the house for that quick nap.  The heat gets to you, and it sneaks up on you fast. I've learned to constantly drink water down here, or you'll get light headed in an instant. When that happens, it's over. 

Waiting in line.  McD in hand
to tide us over until we get in.

I stretch out on the bed and watch the ceiling fan go round and round. The next thing I know, my alarm is going off. I guess I was tired. I lay there for a while, thinking about my ride from last night. And I wonder if I could have done any better. He felt good. I guess I was hoping he'd earn a better ribbon. As I thought about it, I remembered that they post the judges scores online.  Since this is a bigger show, there are actually 3 judges, and the three scores are put together to get to the final ribbons.  However, online they post each of the judge's individual scores. Hmmm, I wonder how B faired by each of them, I wondered if I really wanted to know.  I exhaled, reached for my iPad, typed in the walking horse report URL and pulled up the judges cards for his class. And there in the cards....B had received a second placement by TWO of the judges!  Woot woot!  In fact he had even been placed ahead of the horse that won the class in the eyes of one of the judges. Well that certainly was validating.  We had done a good job. Frankly, we probably did an outstanding job, especially considering that it's hard for unknowns like me and B to get high ribbons in classes like this, at such big important shows. I was delighted!  And so proud of B. 

Can you tell which one
is Jane?

I think I walked with a little more spring in my step as I got ready for tonight's classes. I was excited, and determined to go in focused. My enthusiasm was only dampened by the black clouds that came rolling in as I pinned up my hair and rouged up my cheeks.  Darn it!  Will this blow over?  Yikes, it's pouring and lightening. On and on the rain pelted the window. And my cheer faded.  I came downstairs just as Jane came bursting through the front door, wet and laughing. OMG this does not look good.  I texted Bub to find out if the show was on and he said yep, horses in the ring. My class wasn't until later, but the show's early versatility classes had begun, and B and the HP team was on the grounds.  Well, okay I better get going. So I finished up, and ran out between the raindrops to the car.  However about 10 minutes into my drive, Bub called back with the cancellation news. I guess the heavy downpour that had been in Franklin, just reached Shelbyville and the horse and riders were sent running for cover.  B was back in the trailer, and they we're going back to the Main Gate.  So much for riding in the ring tonight. :(.   I made a U turn and headed back to Jane's. 

Mark Germino on stage....
singing about Antique shopping!

We decided to make lemonade out of these rain soaked lemons, and got ourselves fixed up and went out for some country music. Our destination was The Bluebird Cafe, a famous spot for music writers to showcase acoustic songs they wrote and test out new material. We waited in line for over an hour for the chance to get into this small, intimate place. And then enjoyed an evening, up close and personal with Mark Germino.  He played his new material, to test out on the audience. He was funny, and his songs were playful. One was about columbine flowers, one called 'wow, I was just laying there', and one about a man waiting (not so) patiently on his ole lady who was shopping in the antique store.  LOL, I could have seen Scott relating to that one!  

So in the end, the rain tried to take away a good time, but we found a new path....and the weekend ended up being a great mixture of riding and rich music. 

Columbia gold

It's the last weekend of May, and I am once again on my way to Tennessee. This time I'm really excited, as I will be riding at Columbia. I have never been there and I have only heard what a great show and track it is to ride. And whenever I hear about it, it is quickly described as the "mini Celebration".  (For my non-horsey friends, the Celebration is the largestest walking horse show of the year, where the biggest competition happens.)  So this comparison means a lot.   Columbia should bring in some wonderful horses, so it should be a good show to watch and ride.

B-bop-a-roo!

My Friday morning was a blur of leaving home, catching my flights, worrying through a delayed connection, dropping by Carlan's to pick up my show outfits and rushing to Hannah Pulvers Stables for a practice ride on B.  I arrived at 130pm, late, but Hannah graciously provided me with a lesson. She already had Bourbon warmed up and so I watched her for a few laps, and then climbed aboard myself. I have to say it was an awesome ride. He was snappy and shaking and I was thrilled. Hannah had said he was working well this week....and it felt like it.  I continue to be amazed by Bs progress with Hannah and her team!  After my ride, I hung around to let myself relax at bit after the morning rush, and enjoyed watching B get his 'show bath'. I think I enjoyed it as much as he did. And he smelled so good afterwards. ;).  I talked with him for a while, while he hung out on the cross ties to dry. But it was getting late, and the HP team was putting on the final touches to pack and leave for the show. So I departed.

BBQ lunch from Sonny's.
Pulled pork w/coleslaw!

My next stop was the Winners Circle in Shelbyville, where I picked up a hat raincoat. If your hat gets wet it basically ruins it. And that can get expensive. It had been cloudy and threatening rain all day. I figured if I had hat protection, it wouldn't rain. Right?  Btw, it was a good gamble...we had beautiful weather all night at the show. Whoops, I should have given the spoiler alert.

Then I was off to Jane's to freshen up. And within minutes I was driving to Columbia. The drive was beautiful. Rolling hills and green green green. In 45 minutes I was there, and unpacking my show hat and chaps. As I stood by my car unpacking my outfit, I made a last second decision to change my color scheme. So I went from green and gold, to black and gold. It was a new top that I had picked up for a steal at a tack swap this winter. Very pretty Connie's Customs. Filled with crystals from the waist down on the peplum. Different, and sparkly. I think this will look nice out there on that big white track, as a contrast.  Then I pulled out a new gold show pad for B to wear.

Bourbon was in class 11. So I had time before his class and I watched.the country pleasure class and the aged horse trail class, which were 2 and 5. Afterwards I went to get dressed and off to the warmup ring to catchup with B.  He was already being warmed up, however he was being a bit of a handful. Obviously, he did not like the performance horses in the warmup ring with him, and kept scooting and trying to run off.  As I watched I just kept thinking that I hope there are no performance horses in my class. (that's a joke, cuz the classes are specific to the type of horse and shoes and such...again for my horsey friends, there would never be this kind of mixed class).  Whew.  Well after much warmup....since he was behaving so badly, up I went.  But I have to say he was an angel for me. Maybe it was because he'd been worn down, or maybe because all he wanted was for me to be up there. :). Yeah, I'm totally positive it was the later. LOL.  Hey, a girl can dream!

After what seemed like a long, fussy wait, (bourbon can be quite fidgety waiting around) my class was finally called, and up to the ring we went. I entered the ring second, behind The Honey Badger. (what a fun name for a horse!)  As I entered, Hannah wished me luck, and in I went.

The ring is a large oval, the track is a hard packed footing, and the center ring has a huge gazebo for the judges and their entourage. The track is edged with a tall white painted cement wall, and there is stadium seating on one side and a large grassey knoll on the other for spectators to set up lawn chairs or picnic blankets. It's very cool!  The whole place seems to be cut right into a hillside, and feels like a bowl, with the spectators along the sides and the track at the bottom.  The sun had gone down by the time my class came up, and so the flood lights were on, and it was bright and all lite up. That's perfect for those crystals on my show short. :). They'll be catching that light, so we'll twinkle our way around the ring.

Bourbon at Columbia.  Scott was able
to watch over the internet steam.

My ride was wonderful.  Despite Bourbon's antics during the warmup, he was an angel in the class. I started out slow and he just shook his head and felt timed up. As I came around the first pass, Hannah said that our pass was perfect, so I concentrated hard to keep him there.  It was a lot of give and take, but he definitely was ready to work, so it was easy to keep him there. We made it through the first way of the ring, and then turned around.  Then it was the flat walk the second way. It was a large ring and I could feel him getting tired just as they called for the running walk. Oh, I asked him for some more. On the far curve I started to talk to him, 'common B just a little more for me, almost done boy...you can do it.  You're doing so well. Common B let's go!". And I squeezed him up and released my grip a little, and he rose up in the chest and picked up speed.  "that's it B, good boy".  And around we went. Maybe a little too fast, but I feared slowing him, as he just may take that as the signal that we were done. So I urged him on.  They finally called for the line up. Whew, that was a long class, in a big ring!  But, it was exhilarating and fun, and I was so happy with my ride.  I parked in on the north side, right next to The Honey Badger. Hi Jordan!  We talked a bit about our rides.  I smiled. I was so happy. Clean ride. B really worked for me. No tripping. And I was still in the saddle.  The ribbon didn't matter, I personally had a big accomplishment with my boy.

As the ribbons were called we earned third place. A gold ribbon to match our gold color scheme. Jordan and The Honey Badger won the class. A great little Jose filly. But, I like to think we gave them a run for it. I really couldn't have asked much more of B. I need to slow down and make sure he stays timed up and shaking hard, but all in all, Hannah said it just may have been our personal best ride ever. Yeah!

I took B back the the trailer to be broken down, and did the same for myself. I packed up my chaps and hat, and then immediately made a detour for a country ham sandwich. I realized in that moment how hungry I was. I watched a few classes while I ate. Those who told me about this show were right. I watched some beautiful animals enter that ring tonight.

Saturday will hopefully be another opportunity to strut our stuff. I think it will depend on the weather. It looks like potentially bad storms. And the show is outside. We're planning to go to the PWAT show....all pleasure horses. Fingers crossed mother nature cooperates.

Blue in Petersburg

This trip to Tennessee was a whirlwind. I flew in Friday night after work. And will fly out on Sunday to the UK on business. But, for a few fleeting moments in between, it's B-time!

Bourbon after his win @ Petersburg! 

I got up early on Saturday, had breakfast with Jane and headed over to Hannah Pulvers Stables for a practice ride.  When I arrived, Hannah was already working horses and was sitting on a pretty little thing that was shaking like mad and walking a hole in the ground. Wow! Was all I could think. In fact, I am constantly amazed at the great horses I've had the honor to see, up-close and personal, at her place. Some are aged - that are WCs and WGCs.  And some are young, up-and-comers. The later are always fun to watch as they progress during the season. The one she currently was riding was Designer Champaign, just an awesome country pleasure horse.

Soon Bub appeared with another horse in tow. We chatted a bit. And, I noticed Hannah had stopped riding and was just sitting there looking at me. I'm thinking there must be something on my face or......  Then I finally realize that the horse that Bub had walked out with was B!  Oh, my baby! I was standing there talking (I know. I know. I'm always talking.) and I hadn't even noticed it was him. The whole time B was right there looking at me, waiting for some of my attention.  I turned to him, tossed my arms around his neck and he just laid his head against me as if to say pet me. Where have you been so long? Pet me. And, I certainly obliged.

In the winner's circle.

In short order Hannah was warming up B, and he looked great. His head was REALY shaking. I taped it and sent the video clip to Scott. In almost real time he was returning my text and agreeing - very pleased.   My turn to ride next. He felt different and the same, all at the same time. I was learning to hold him softer but keep his nose in check. Ride him slower and harder. All I knew is that I was confused. How can I do all of that at the same time. But I'm getting closer to understanding what it means and how it feels, and navigating the tightrope.  Before I knew it, B was blowing hard and my lesson was over. Nooooooooo.  I need to practices this about 50 more times. LOL. Oh boy.  I haven't ridden him in months. Haven't seen him for more than two months. And in about five hours I was about to ride him into the show ring.  Eeeks. But that is one of the main challenges of long distance showing. While I'm not liking it any better, after two years of doing this, I am learning to deal with it (a little better.). I just have to refer back to what I do know. My riding practice on Diva and Fash. And my past rides on B - especially the time this past Fall, when we really started to gel while he was home.  Bottom line. I can do this.  I just wish Scott was here. I hate him always telling me what to do. But, he sees a lot and ALMOST is always right. ( Oh, I hope he never reads THAT, I'll never be able to live with him). :)

The whole team joins me and B after our blue ribbon ride.
 L2R - Jane, Carlan, me, B, Candy, Hannah and Bub.

I hung around and watched a few more horses get worked and then headed out.  Carlan had called and would be riding Lil Wayne and her new horse, Shake N Bake.  So I drove over to Bobby's to watch.  First was LW - and he looked good. Then we went into the barn to watch Emily ride SNB. As a bonus, I got to ride SNB too. He's a little energizer bunny.  Just goes and goes - like his name says.....he shakes. Fun! The remainder of the day was filled with lunch and getting ready for the show.

The ride to Petersburg was over an hour. But the sky was clear with blue showing through between the big white fluffy clouds.  When we arrived, we pulled into the grass and parked.  Right away I saw Hannah's trailer with B tied up, and munching on hay.  I was especially happy because Jane, Carlan and Emily were all able to come to the show with me. So, I had a little entourage. ;)  My class would be  #13. Hmmm, I hope that doesn't mean disaster.  I can be a bit superstitious. But, I looked up and the skies were still blue.  I crossed my fingers.  After class five I went to the car, got my show outfit and got dressed. Bourbon had been taken up and through the DQP, so I met up with him at the warm-up area. Hannah warmed him up and then I got a few passes in. Then we waited for our class to be called.

Victory Lap - so fun!

Hannah walked me up to the ring, provided a few last instructions, and in I went. As I picked him up and rounded the first curve my entourage cheered me on. Thanks girls!  Emily was already taping me for Scott to see later. Now to concentrate.  I watched Bs head just bob up and down. I heard his hooves hit the ground. I rounded the far curve and then the straight away. Hannah gave instructions as I passed. Check his nose. Slow, flat walk. Ok try. Try. Try. Keep him shaking and walking and slow. OMG.  Finally the running walk. Yeah we love this part.  We picked up speed. Weeeee.  He's really fun to ride.  Big and his stride covers the ground but soooooo smoooooth.  My Cadillac. Whoops. Slower.  ;). The reverse. Then flat walk and running walk. A few tail swooshes later and we were called into the line up. Anne Frank lined up next to me and we chatted a bit. She admired my saddle. I had bought it from her. I agreed it matched B perfectly. The judge came and we proficiently backed up on cue. Then the wait. But, in just minutes, number 222 was called - Watchin for the Storm!  I could hear my entourage cheer, and also Bobby Kaye (who I bought B from) too.  Woot woot!  Our first ride this season and its a blue!  I rode up to the winner's circle. The photographer took our picture. And Bub fastened the blue ribbon to Bourbon's halter. As the other ribbons were called, I gave B a pat. We waited and then we took our victory lap. Our names were announced again. I was very proud of him. I've seen many horses race for the exit, but B took his victory lap just like any other - well behaved. Or, maybe he was enjoying the moment as well, as he should!

Thanks Hannah!

Then it was picture time and congrats. Yeah!  A big hug from/for Hannah. A number of smiles, high fives, and more congrats from other customers in the Hannah Pulvers (HP) camp. My first blue ribbon with Hannah when I was riding him. And, my very first ever Blue ribbon Victory Lap at a Saturday night Tennessee show!   ....  So happy.

And so 2013 begins a new show year...

Me, Gale and Kricket - on our way.

To catch everyone up, it was March 1, 2013 when I returned B to Shelbyville.  I had hoped to get him back in training earlier, but a change of jobs - or more precisely a job hunt - slowed my progress. But by March I was beginning a new career phase and Bourbon was going to begin a new show year. This will be his last junior year as a four year old.  He's bigger, stronger and much more coordinated, so we're hoping for an exciting year. Fingers crossed.

B is back!

I was lucky enough to have company for the trip this time. Both Kricket and Gale decided that a road trip sounded good. And a little time to play with horses would be fun. So we set off hauling B behind us and headed south. And other than a quick detour through Indianapolis and Louisville, KY (umm, which was not in the plans but provided ad hoc compliments of Gale)  ;) the trip was basically filled with good conversation and tons of laughter.  We also fit in a night in downtown Nashville, which was fabulous. We did the honkey Tonks, enjoyed BBQ, and met Sam Moore, the damn cutest cowboy singer of the bunch.   In addition we fit in a bit of horsey shopping. Kricket got horse shoes, I got a new navy English snap brim, and well Gale bought a horse!  We decided to call him S'moore, after our cute new cowboy singer - cuz he was the darn cutest thing. He's gonna make someone in Wisconsin a great little horse. And her name is probably Gale.

At the Honkey Tonks.

Doin' a lil shoe shop'n

So now Bourbon is back in training. And I'm back to work in my new job. So we're both in learning mode. And ready to start our new adventures in 2013.

I'm glad you've decided to join me. I plan to keep my blog going....since so many of you have encouraged me to do so. And honestly, it's been a great way for me to revisit the fun journey I've been on too. So I once again tip my hat to my 'neice in law', Jena, who provided the idea through inspiring me to follow her blogging activity with my own.

Meeting Sam Moore! 

For those savvy readers, you'll note this is a March story posted in May. I'm now down in Tennessee for the first show. It's been drizzling all morning so I hope that clears before tonight's opening anthem. And now I'm gonna jump out of bed, have some coffee with Jane, and head over to ride bourbon for the first time since March. I'll post how today and tonight go. Stay tuned.

Two cuties at the Clearview B&B
that we stayed at during the trip.

A long ride home

Blue skies with B behind me.

Tuesday I woke before 6am, grabbed my breakfast and coffee to go, and packed up my suitcases into the truck and headed over to Hannah's.  I drove up to the back lot where I had parked my trailer, and Ed greeted me and helped me hook up.  Then down to the circle drive in front of the Main Gait stable, and I walked into the barn to get Bourbon ready for the trip home too.  Hannah's groom helped me get Bourbon out of his stall, and he wrapped his legs for me.  He is a true pro, and I have to say, I've picked up more than one tip on readying a horse from him while I've been there this year.  Here again, I marveled at how he wrapped the legs in the cotton pads and then bound them with the blue wraps I had provided him.  They were perfect....   And in moments B was ready for the trailer.

Over bridges.

I walked him out, and I teared up.  Really?  :)   I am so sad to leave this place today.  Its been so much fun.  I've learned so much.  I've met more new people.  And, Bourbon has come so far.  Hannah has been so good to both of us - she is totally amazing.....and has given us gifts that we'll never be able to repay.   But we'll be back soon.  And I can't wait to find out how next year will unfold for us when we come back.

Bourbon walks to the trailer, puts one foot into the bed and stops and steps back out.  He looks back, and then at me.   I tug the lead rope and ask him to step in.  And after a moment, he jumps right in.  Maybe he was having a moment as well.  :)    I hook him up, pat him, and we're off.   I wave to Ed as I leave, and he waves back.   And as I turn right out of the drive, I look over at the Hannah Pulvers sign and smile.  Bye for now.  We'll be back.

With trucks.

The drive is long, but fairly uneventful.  I stop a few extra times, to water and check how things are going inside the trailer.  Stop for gas, stop for lunch.....and keep on truck'n.   We left Hannah's around 7:30am.  I arrived home about 12 hours later.

B checks things out at
Road Ranger gas station.

Diva and Fashion ran thru the pasture to greet the truck.  And then cantered all the way back to the barn with us as we pulled in.  I think they knew Bourbon is back, and they are there to welcome him.   When I pulled B from the trailer, he backed out like a champ, and looked around.  He craned his neck and looked at the house, the barn...and then at Fash and Diva.  Then he relaxed and just strolled into the barn like he had never been gone.   I put F & D back out into the pasture and closed the gate, and put B in the paddock right after I pull off his wraps.   I think he enjoyed stretching his legs, and walked every inch of the paddock and we watched.  I'm not sure if he actually recognized the place and remembered his paddock friends - but it sure seemed like that.  I swear, he knew exactly where he was.

Missed ya Diva!

It was getting dark, so I tucked him in his stall with a deep fresh layer of shavings, a pail full of cool water and some hay to keep him busy all night.  Scott and I spent some time with him.  Scott couldn't get over how big he had gotten, and muscled, and big, and so big.  LOL. Its been a long time since he saw him in person. Probably 6+ months.  And he's gotten alot bigger since last December when he left here.

All three sharing a stall.  Like B was
never gone...right back to normal.

It was late, B was tired, and I was tired from the long drive.  But we were home.  Truly Dorthy was right, there's no place like home.  For me, or for B.   And, I think Diva and Fash were glad to have him back as well.  The three amigos, together again.  :) 

English Novice Ride - Celebration 2012

Handsome B.

When I woke on Monday morning, I had a bitter sweet feeling.  Today would be my last class at the Celebration.  So I was excited to get to it, but I also was sad that my Celebration escapades would be over for the year.  I laid in bed, looked around and noticed the Celebration guide sitting on my dresser.  I smiled.   Me and Bourbon were listed in it, and so I pulled it open and looked again at the class listing and found our listing in Class 102, our Novice horse, Novice rider English class in Trail.  Yep, we were listed there...so it is official - I will ride again today!  I smiled, and tore the covers off and began to get myself ready.  This was "our class", or at least that was what Hannah kept saying.  B is high headed so English does suit him...and of course he's a novice and I'm a novice...so YEP, that sounds like "our class".  :)

I pulled my hair back to the nap of my neck, and I pinned in my satin ribbon with the delicate lace.  I like this one for my English classes - for some reason it just seems fitting.  I then pinned in my clips to keep those little side whispies tamed.  I then went to work on make-up.   I stopped for a moment to consider...lavender or orange?   Which coat would I wear?   I decided to stay with lavender....and so I reached for my eye shadow in the plum shades.  I curled my lashes, applied mascara, blushed my cheeks, and added a little lipstick.  I looked at myself in the mirror.  Boy, I'm really doing this - and I laughed, a little proud of myself.   Crazy, is all I really thought.  I added a little eye liner for emphasis...and then decided I was about as ready as I was gonna get.

Next I donned my black show pants, my lemon yellow shirt, and pulled on my vest and tie.  I rolled up my jods, pulled on socks and my Juicy Couture converse style tennis shoes.  The shoes would serve me well on the walk over to the show grounds - even though they definitely looked funny with the rest of the outfit.  I'd carry my riding boots and spurs, as well as my hat and show day coat.  And put those items on at the very last moment...just before I went into the ring.

Pat, the hostess with the most-est, at the B&B, had my coffee and breakfast ready for me when I came into the kitchen.  I was up early...and so she had everything ready for me, even though her other guests would be sleeping in and served later.  She's been so wonderful...and despite my stomach being nervous, I have to say the cheese omelet, bacon and fruit tasted good, and went down well.  I sipped my coffee and watches a few squirrels jump from branch to branch as I finished up my meal.

Evening show....the
horses in the lineup.

I scurried back to my room, grabbed my day coat, hat box and a few other necessities, and hiked my way over to the show grounds.  When I arrived, things seemed calm, almost too calm.  There were only a few horse trailers in the parking lot, and the HP stables only had a handful of horses with them as well.  Everyone seemed more relaxed than in past days.  I guess a Monday morning is a work day, and many who had showed last week, and over the weekend...maybe had headed home.  I wondered how many would be in my class.   Maybe it would be small?  Or would others arrive later...the class was about 1/2 way thru the morning.  Well...I guess that was all out of my control, so I just set about getting my jacket up to the warm-up ring, and help as I could with the horses and such.   B had white ribbons in his mane, but when Hannah heard I was wearing my lavender day coat, she pulled out purple, lavender and white ribbons and had him re-braided to match.  "Its your class - let's do it to match," she said with a smile.  So, I indulged the double work.

The warm up ring was quiet too.  Just a handful of groups, and only a few horse warming up.  Wow, would anyone be in my class?  Well, at least a few - from Hannah's barn at least -- so I was relieved I wouldn't be alone.  However, as we got closer to my class, it got a little busier.  And by the time my class was called, 15 or 16 entered the ring.  Yeah...a nice sized class.  Whew.    I waited a bit, and entered the ring in the middle of the pack.  As Hannah led us up the ramp into the Calsonic, someone had climbed the staircase to the right of us.  This caught Bourbon by surprise, and he shuffled a bit and did a little side stepping as he craned his neck to figure out what that was.  I pulled him back, and Hannah grabbed his head-stall to calm him.  Then she smiled and released me and wished me luck.  LUCK?  Yikes...  Hope he calms after that little startle.  LOL.  And, he did...he got up into the ring and went right to work.

Running Walk Please!

As I got him up into the flat walk, and did my entry lap for the judges, I relaxed and enjoyed the ride.  I was here, I was doing this, and I smiled.  I literally smiled all the way around the ring.  I looked up into the crowd, I saw BobbiKaye, I saw a few of my barn-mates cheering me on, I saw Hannah...and heard her encourage me.  I took it all in.   I actually saw the judges for the first time.  I noticed all the people in the audience.  They watched us pass by.  And I felt B under me.  I heard his hooves.  I felt the slight tug on my hands by the reins as B nodded his way around the ring.  It was like all my senses were heightened.  And it felt good, I was having fun....and enjoying it all.    We didn't trip.  We didn't get behind any other horses and get all covered up.  And, before I knew it, we were on the reverse, and then called into the line-up.

As I chose a spot to lineup, BobbiKaye walked over and sat in front of me, and gave me the thumbs up.  It was a good ride.  And I felt really good.  As the ribbons were called, I received 6th place out of the group of 16 on the call sheet.  Yeah!  Another ribbon from The Celebration.  Wow!  As I pulled B into a gait to collect my ribbon, he walked like a champ.  Again, that bitter sweet feeling came over me.  As I neared the exit gate, I knew my Celebration was also coming to an end.  Upon exit, Hannah was there to great me.  She smiled, but she also snapped her fingers with a "aww-shucks"....she had thought we did great...and wondered why the judges were so hard on him.   I just thought...I'm so proud that he got a ribbon.  For me, it was a huge accomplishment.  No one knows me.  No one knows my horse.  We are unknown...and still getting ribbons at the Celebration.   And, while it must feel TOTALLY AWESOME to win a blue or reserve....I am feeling pretty good about what we have accomplished.   And, that I have something left to strive for in 2013.  Next year B will be 4, stronger, more coordinated, and I will have more experience under my belt too.  Plus Hannah will have another year on his training as well.

Bourbon poses in the Winners Circle.

After our class, I walked B back to the trailer.  As I exited the Calsonic warm-up, I walked past the winners circle park, where all the winner photos are taken.  I grabbed Van and asked if she would take a photo of me in front of the park.  When we got there, there was a big white truck parked right in front of the Celebration sign.  So, Van looked at me and said, you know, there is no rule that you can't go into the park and go up and take a photo in the winners circle.  And we smiled at each other, and headed right in...me, Van and Bourbon.  Like we were thieves in the night.  No one was there except the media.  I walked up with B, and he posed.  I swear he knew what was up, and posed for the pictures.  Van caught this great shot.  B standing tall, and me with a smile of accomplishment for my three ribbon placements at the Celebration.  A journey that I've been traveling since I dropped B at Hannah's on December 31st...where the new year started 8 months earlier.  We giggled, and just as I stepped away, a group came up with their WC horse and the media went to work.   Maybe one day that will be me.  Or maybe not.  But a dream.....none the less.  And I smiled.

I took B back to the trailer and handed him off to get his tack removed.  I helped a little, talked to the rest of the gang....and then grabbed up my day coat and hat box and headed back to my B&B as Hannah and Bub and the team readied to leave as well.   The rest of the afternoon was spent organizing and packing for my ride home.  I went out to Hannah's place and made sure all of Bourbon's tack was pulled and packed in the trailer as well.  I was going to have an early morning...so wanted everything set and organized, so I could arrive, hook up, load up and get rolling quickly tomorrow.  I also ran back to the Calsonic to buy a Celebration shirt and hat - for a keepsake.  And, stole a few moments to lay down and nap.  But in no time, it was 6pm, and I had to get ready to go over to the evening show.  And Jane's text message was encouraging me to get a move on for happy hour before the show.  Exhausted or not, I had to get a move-on.

Jane and I enjoy watching Darden
win his WC class.

Jane and I spent the evening watching classes...and enjoying the show.  It went fast...and we got to see Darden win another WC title.  And, he did it despite tossing a shoe in the midst of the class.  Once they pounded that shoe back on....they awarded him the win!   If you have never seen Darden show, it is pure pleasure.  He's a showman and a joy to watch out there in the ring.  And, even more fun to watch win the class...and celebrate with afterwards.  :)

So, as I walked back to my B&B, I thought back about the week.  It was fun and a huge success.  I was sad to leave, since there was so much more show to come.  But I was also looking forward to getting B home for awhile.  So, again that bittersweet feeling came over me, as I walked up the drive to the B&B, unlocked the door to my room and slipped between the covers.   Morning would arrive soon....and I had a long drive ahead.    Sweet dreams.